Labor law revisions could end overtime for higher-paid workers, help low-income

By Leigh Strope
The Associated Press

WASHINGTON -- Heeding the complaints of business, the Bush administration is revamping decades-old labor regulations in an overhaul that could force many higher-income Americans to work longer hours without overtime pay.

The administration argues that the pillars of American labor law, which established the 40-hour work week, a minimum wage and overtime pay, are antiquated.

The Labor Department says low-wage workers could see an income boost under its plan. But labor unions fear changes would severely restrict who is legally required to be paid for overtime work.

"Nothing prohibits employers from requiring as many hours as they want," said Chris Owens, public policy director for the AFL-CIO. "The overtime pay requirement is the only thing that acts as a brake on excessive work hours."

The rest is here:

http://www.azcentral.com/business/ar...abor31-ON.html

Looking for your thoughts

I think if you do the time you should be paid the wage.

Mark

[EDIT] To fix the link.

[ 02-03-2003, 12:14 PM: Message edited by: skywalker ]

Well, this is why there are exempt and non-exempt employees. Basically, the 150% pay laws only apply to non-exempt employees, which are usually manual laborers. Now, don't think me pro-labor, I HATE labor unions. But, these laws are important. I'm also sure Bushie-boy wants to bring back Lochner-ization and the days of "freedom to contract."

PS - for a spoiled white kid who has never done anything other than live off daddy's money, Bush sure does know a lot about labor. ;)

[ 02-03-2003, 10:36 AM: Message edited by: Timber Loftis ]